The Florida Gators (8-1, 6-1 in the SEC) have clinched the SEC East title in Jim McElwain's first season, but there's still a lot to work on if they want to create a College Football Playoff resume. Beating up on a woeful South Carolina team (3-6, 1-6 in conference) won't impress any voters, but it will offer Florida a chance to continue to improve.
How to watch Florida vs. South Carolina on TV or online, plus 3 things to know
Florida gears up for the stretch run with a trip to South Carolina.
Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
The Gators held on with a late Austin Hardin field goal to beat Vanderbilt 9-7 last week and clinch the division, making McElwain the first rookie head coach to ever win the SEC East. But it was one ugly win with just 93 yards rushing from the Gators and a 12-of-24 performance for 158 yard with an interception from Treon Harris. It leaves a lot to be desired, but the Gators still have time to get better.
As for the Gamecocks, they’re planning a blackout in Williams-Brice and hope to drum up a little extra fan support through what has become a lost season. Another loss would clinch the first losing season in Columbia since 2003. Still, South Carolina has been a thorn in the Gators’ sides over the last few seasons, and a win would be another nice feather in interim head coach Shawn Elliot’s cap.
How to watch, stream and listen
TV: Saturday, noon ET, ESPN
Radio: South Carolina, Florida
Online streaming: WatchESPN Link
Spread: Florida is favored by 8.5 points.
Make friends: Gator fans can talk about the matchup over at Alligator Army, while South Carolina fans can chat it up over at Garnet and Black Attack.
Three big things to know
1. Polish that passing game
Florida's Treon Harris took some steps backward last week in Florida's nail-biter with Vanderbilt, and they're going to need more from him if they want to hold on down the stretch with the Florida State game and then the SEC Championship Game. South Carolina is near the bottom of the SEC in pass defense rankings, so this would be a good opportunity to gain some confidence.
2. Walking wounded
Florida's star defensive tackle Jonathan Bullard and safety Keanu Neal both appear to be questionable for this game, which means the Gator defense will be without two very key players. If the Florida offense struggles again it could be difficult for this defense to hold another team in check while its short-handed.
3. Blue Skai
South Carolina's star linebacker Skai Moore has been limited with a hip injury in practice and is considered questionable for this one. Moore has 89 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss and four interceptions, leading the Gamecocks in all three categories. Without him, it's going to be hard to keep Florida in check.
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